KR100985342B1 - Liquid container closure assembly - Google Patents

Abstract

There is disclosed an improved closure assembly or tamper-evident device(5) adapted to be applied to a mouth and neck portion (10,11) of a container (15) for liquid. There is a need to provide such devices with tamper-indicating features, which, while not acting in any refilling preventive role, give a clear irremovable and/or irreversible indication that a bottle has been opened since being originally filled with genuine contents. Such clear indicators have been somewhat lacking in previous closure designs. Accordingly the invention provides a closure assembly (5) comprising a sleeve (20) adapted to lie substantially concentrically with respect to the mouth (10) and provided with means for fixing the sleeve (20) on the container (15), the closure assembly (5) further comprising a first outer sleeve (25) being a substantially tight fit with the sleeve (20) but rotatable with respect thereto, and a second outer sleeve (30) separate from the first outer sleeve and associated with a container closure member (35), and wherein there are provided means for spacing apart initially adjacent portions of the first and second outer sleeves (25,30) upon reclosure of the assembly (5) after an initial opening of the container (15). The closure assembly also provides a non-refillable device (90).

Description

LIQUID CONTAINER CLOSURE ASSEMBLY}

The present invention relates to a closure assembly suitable for use at the inlet of a reservoir (eg for a liquid), such as the neck of a bottle. In particular, the invention is not considered to be exclusive, but relates to tamper-proof refill-proof snap-in fittings.

For various reasons, it is ensured that an open container, such as a bottle containing a liquid, such as a bottle of precious liquid (e.g., an alcoholic beverage), will not be refilled with a large amount of other liquid substitutes whose characteristics and quality differ from the original contents. May be required. Such attempts to provide a stopper that makes refilling difficult are not always guaranteed for certain changes. Although it would be advantageous to consider providing a tamper-indicating means that provides evidence that the bottle and its original contents are intact, if the bottle can be resealed with an alternative cap or cap, the bottle has been changed to the buyer and the contents It will not indicate that it is inferior to the original content.

Therefore, it is desirable to provide a stopper that cannot be removed without extreme levels of effort or damage to the bottle. Such a device is shown, for example, in British Patent No. 2274837 by Applicant, which has been selected only as an example.

Although it is very important that the original stopper cannot be removed without the apparent damage or damage to the bottle and / or stopper, the stopper that cannot be easily removed by overcoming the features provided in the stopper with the intention of preventing or preventing such refills It will be appreciated that this will be the target of an attempt to refill the reservoir. Therefore, in addition to providing a device to prevent refilling of bottles, while no refill prevention role is performed, an apparently non-removable and / or unchangeable indication of whether the bottle has been opened since the original contents were filled. There is a need to provide such a device with additional tamper-indicating features giving. This obvious indicator has some drawbacks in previous plug designs.

In addition, there is a need for a flat design of the closure assembly that allows for easy and reliable manufacture, assembly and fitting to fit the neck of the bottle. This simplicity has some drawbacks in previous plug designs.

It is an object of at least one aspect of the present invention to provide an improved opening that is brittle and / or removed in the initial opening in such a way as to suggest that the closure assembly has not been previously opened and that has no part capable of being reattached by the counterfeiter. It is to provide a stopper assembly.

It is also an object of at least one aspect of the present invention to prevent or at least mitigate at least one of the problems / disadvantages discussed in the prior art.

According to a first aspect of the invention, there is provided a closure assembly (or tamper-verification device) suitable for use at the inlet and neck portions of a reservoir for liquid, the closure assembly being substantially co-centered with respect to the inlet. A sleeve suitable and provided with a means for securing the sleeve to the reservoir, wherein the closure assembly is substantially securely mounted to the sleeve but rotatable relative to the sleeve and separate from the first outer sleeve and the reservoir closure And a second outer sleeve associated with the member, and providing means for opening the first adjacent portions of the first and second outer sleeves upon resealing of the assembly after the initial opening of the reservoir.

Applicants named the invention device "ALUSNAP" refill prevention stopper assembly or tamper-verification device.

It is most advantageous that the first outer sleeve and the second outer sleeve are one cut from the rest before the initial opening of the closure assembly.

It is preferred that the first outer sleeve has first and second ends opened and the second outer sleeve has a first sealing end and a second opening end.

The reservoir closure member preferably includes a circular groove that further provides a circular lip portion located adjacent the bottom of the circular groove.

The first adjacent portion can include adjacent circular edges of each of the first and second outer sleeves.

Prior to initial opening, the first and second circular edges will be located in the circular groove and substantially adjacent to each other.

During the initial opening operation of the reservoir, the first circular edge is moved substantially in its initial circular position to move over the circular lip portion in a direction away from the inlet of the expansion or liquid reservoir and then radially located behind the circular lip portion. It is preferable to move or contract in the direction toward the inlet of the liquid reservoir. Alternatively or additionally, during the initial reservoir opening operation, the circular lip portion contracts under the first circular edge or moves in a direction toward the inlet of the reservoir for liquid and then is circularly positioned before the first circular edge. It is preferred to move or expand in a direction away from the inlet of the reservoir for liquid to its initial circular position as substantially as possible. This activity is such that when the reservoir is resealed by reusing the closure member, the first and second circular edges are in an interfering manner, such as the first and second outer sleeves being opened by a circular lip portion located between them. Place the circular lip vertically between them.

By this arrangement after resealing, the first and second circular edges are no longer adjacent but are spaced apart and thus reveal a gap or gap between the first and second circular edges. This visual indicator verifies whether the closure assembly (and reservoir) has been opened and resealed.

The first circular edge of the first outer sleeve can provide the first circular bead portion to the first outer sleeve, and in the same manner the second circular bead portion to the second circular edge of the second outer sleeve Can be provided.

The first and second outer sleeves may comprise any suitable material, and the material preferably comprises a metal, or a metal based material.

The metal, or metal-based material, preferably comprises substantially aluminum or its alloys, and in particular aluminum foil.

Aluminum provides a quality medium for the application of printing dyes, inks, paints and the like, and therefore it is advantageous for messages, logos, images, names and other information to be carried by the first and second outer sleeves. For example, the message may include an arrow indicating the direction of rotation for opening the closure assembly.

The reservoir closure member is preferably a cap comprising a threaded portion that allows for rotational movement of the cap (usually counterclockwise) during the reservoir opening operation.

The closure assembly will include a refill prevention device that provides a runoff device suitable for protecting the inlet of the reservoir for liquid. The reservoir closure member may be a cap suitable for closing the outlet of the runoff discharge device, and the first outer sleeve may be adapted to receive a portion of the runoff discharge device. The outlet is substantially annular and the cap may have an annular seal that is removable and receivable in the annular outlet on the inner end face.

Preferably, the second outer sleeve member is suitable for receiving a portion of the cap.

The cap is generally received in a tight interference fit manner in the second outer sleeve, but can be arbitrarily rotatable relative to the second outer sleeve under the application of sufficient force.

The runoff device is preferably made as part of the sleeve, for example by injection molding.

The refill prevention device further comprises a valve seat body partially receivable within a minimum portion of the neck portion of the reservoir, and the valve seat body is preferably at least partially surrounded by a sleeve.

At least one movable valve member is preferably provided in the valve seat body.

Preferably, a means is provided for holding the first outer sleeve longitudinally with respect to the sleeve, for example one end of the first outer sleeve formed in a minimum portion over the end of the sleeve.

Prior to initial opening of the closure assembly, the first and second circular edges of the first and second sleeves are located in a substantially circular groove provided in the cap and are substantially contiguous. This position is such that when the reservoir is first opened by the relative twisting of the cap and sleeve, the second circular edge of the second outer sleeve remains in the groove provided in the cap, and the first circular edge of the first outer sleeve is provided in the cap. Gradually resiliently causing circular movement out of the groove to ensure that the cap is removed from the runoff and first outer sleeve portion. Optionally or additionally, the circular lip portion is progressively caused to move inward in a circular manner. As soon as the contact between the cap and the first circular edge of the first outer sleeve is removed, the first circular edge contracts to substantially reduce the circumference (eg its initial circumference), so that the resulting circumference is the portion of the cap located below the groove. Is less than the circumference of This cap portion is preferably provided as a circular lip of the cap.

When the cap is reused in the runoff drainage device, the stop position is reached if the circular lip portion of the cap rests, rests or adjoins the first circular edge of the first outer sleeve, thus returning to the initial unopened starting position. To prevent them. A longitudinal gap or void therefore remains between the first and second outer sleeves, thus including the minimum portion of the circular lip initially wrapped or enclosed in the first cap disposed on the surface of the first circular edge and the runoff drainage device. Reveal the circular part of the cap.

The exposed circular portion of the cap is advantageously colored and / or printed with information, incentives and the like.

The securing means may comprise first means for securing the sleeve to the reservoir so as to prevent rotational movement of the sleeve relative to the neck of the reservoir.

The securing means may also comprise second means for securing the sleeve to the reservoir so as to limit the longitudinal movement of the sleeve relative to the inlet of the reservoir.

The second means for securing the sleeve is in the form of at least one protruding means protruding inwardly of the sleeve, the at least one protruding means being movable radially of the sleeve in a rigidly elastic manner and It is desirable to be able to engage the outer lip portion.

Preferably, the first outer sleeve is secured to the sleeve by an interference fit means between the outer surface of the sleeve and the inner surface of the first outer sleeve.

The cap preferably has a threaded portion therein that engages with a corresponding threaded portion above the runoff outlet.

It is preferred that the first and second outer sleeves are aesthetically pleasing, and as such, the first and second outer sleeves preferably comprise a metal foil.

It is desirable to provide a means for assembling the sleeve and valve seat body together before being applied to the reservoir.

It is preferred that protruding means are provided on the inner wall of the sleeve to resiliently engage the neck of the reservoir.

The sleeve preferably comprises one or more circular gaps around the sleeve which are defined between the portions of the sleeve extending in the axial direction. That / each protruding means is provided adjacent one edge of the gap.

Each protruding means is preferably located at one lower circular edge of the gap.

Typically, the runoff drainage device comprises a pouring lip that extends in a circular manner.

The sleeve further provides a tubular body located inside the runoff drainage device, preferably co-centered, and the tubular body is attached to the inner surface of the sleeve by a plurality of webs.

In addition, the holes of the tubular body are preferably closed by an outer facing wall which, in particular, closes the tubular body.

Optionally, the tubular body may be a wall or a solid located at any convenient axial position along the tubular body.

The closed wall of the tubular body is preferably located at substantially the same height as the circular flowing lip.

Conveniently the tubular body provides a circular extending brim located at the lower outer edge of the tubular body. Conveniently the webs connect the inner face of the sleeve to the rim and tubular body.

Conveniently each web is configured to provide a bracket on which the rim rests.

Conveniently, the sleeves preferably have a plurality of protrusions or ridges formed on the inner surface, and have their long axes disposed in a circle around the sleeve and disposed substantially axially on the sleeve.

In use, such protrusions or ridges interact with embossed pieces, ridges, etc. on the outer surface of a reservoir (eg, the "glass finish" of a bottle) that prevents unwanted movement of the sleeve.

The valve seat body includes a tubular portion, the free end portion of the tubular portion providing a valve seat suitable for contact by the valve member trapped in the tubular portion in a sealing manner.

The valve seat is preferably a radially inwardly extending flange of the tubular portion which extends in a circle. In one embodiment this valve seat is located at one end of the tubular portion, and the end of the tubular portion is closed except for the annular gap.

It will be appreciated that the tubular portion is suitable for being substantially received into the inlet portion of the reservoir.

The tubular portion further comprises at least one engagement means on its outer surface that engages the inner surface of the reservoir in an interfering manner.

The engagement means is preferably radially extending circular projections.

At or near the end of the tubular portion away from the valve seat, an additional tubular body of substantially co-centric diameter of greater than the tubular portion is provided, and the inner surface of the additional tubular body is defined by the one or more additional webs. Is connected to the outer surface of the.

The first end of the additional tubular body is preferably connected to the outer surface of the tubular portion by an annular flange.

Thus, in one embodiment of the present invention, this structure provides a circular bowl with a flange forming a defined trough floor between the outer surface of the tubular portion and the inner surface of the additional tubular body. The vessel is divided into small arc shaped vessels by an additional web.

This vessel helps to prevent the insertion of objects through the closure assembly into the reservoir.

The second end of the additional tubular body is preferably disposed at substantially the same height as the end of the tubular portion away from the valve seat.

In use, the tubular portion forms an inner sleeve of the assembled closure assembly.

The additional tubular body outer surface advantageously interacts with and interferes with the inner surface of the sleeve.

The radially extending circular rim is located at the outer edge of the end of the additional tubular body, which is conveniently seated against the lower surface of the radially extending circular rim provided on the inner surface of the sleeve in the assembled closure assembly.

According to a second aspect of the invention, there is provided a storage container comprising a closure assembly according to the first aspect of the invention.

The storage container is preferably a storage container for a liquid.

The storage container will probably be a bottle, for example a glass bottle, and will be suitable for the storage of alcoholic beverages or beverages, for example liquids such as vodka, whisky, brandy, gin and the like.

According to a third aspect of the invention, a combination of a reservoir and a closure assembly according to the first aspect of the invention is provided.

According to a fourth aspect of the invention, there is provided an alcoholic beverage product comprising an alcohol substance packaged in a bond according to the third aspect of the invention.

According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method of manufacturing a closure assembly comprising the following steps:

(a) providing an outer sleeve member;

(b) providing a drainage device and sleeve suitable for protecting the inlet and neck portion of the reservoir for liquid, and providing a reservoir closure member for releasably protecting the runoff device and / or sleeve;

(c) placing at least a runoff drainage device, the sleeve and the reservoir closure member in a portion in the outer sleeve member;

(d) forming the outer sleeve member as a second outer sleeve member separate from the first outer sleeve.

This method is particularly advantageous in mass production.

Step (d) is preferably carried out by using a first cutting tool such as a blade of the machine tool.

Step (d) preferably comprises: forming, at the periphery of the outer sleeve member, cuts to form adjacent first and second circular edges on the first and second outer sleeves.

Advantageously, the first and second circular edges are formed in a circular groove that bears the reservoir closure member (prior to the initial opening).

It is advantageous for the first and second circular edges to have a reduced diameter compared to each minimum adjacent portion of the first or second outer sleeves.

After step (c), the method also preferably comprises the following steps:

(e) forming an end of the first outer sleeve over the end of the sleeve to maintain the first outer sleeve and the sleeve in longitudinal association.

Step (e) is preferably carried out by using a second cutting tool, such as an additional blade of the machine tool.

Steps (d) and (e) are undertaken substantially simultaneously.

The closure assembly thus formed will comprise a single assembly for snap application to the inlet and neck portions of the reservoir.

The bottling method according to the sixth aspect of the invention comprises the following steps:

(a) providing a closure assembly made according to a fifth aspect of the invention;

(b) providing a bottle;

(c) filling the bottle with liquid;

(d) sealing the bottle using a closure assembly at the mouth and neck of the bottle;

1 is a cross-sectional view of a closure assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention during an initial stage of manufacture;

2 is a cross-sectional view of the closure assembly of FIG. 1 during an intermediate stage of manufacture;

3 is a cross-sectional view of the closure assembly of FIG. 1 after manufacture and prior to initial opening;

4 is an exploded perspective view of the closure assembly of FIG. 3 in combination with a bottle having a neck and an opening; And

5 is a cross-sectional view of the closure assembly of FIG. 3 used in the bottle of FIG. 4 prior to initial opening.

Referring first to Figures 3, 4 and 5, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, a closure assembly (or tamper-verification device), generally designated (5), is shown. The closure assembly 5 is suitable for use in the inlet and neck portions 10 and 11 of the reservoir or bottle 15 for liquids. The closure assembly 5 comprises a sleeve 20 which is adapted to be substantially co-centered with respect to the inlet 10 and is provided with means for securing the sleeve 20 to the reservoir 15. The closure assembly 5 further comprises a first outer sleeve 25 that is firmly press fit into the sleeve 20 but is rotatable relative to the sleeve under the application of sufficient rotational force. The closure assembly 5 also includes a second outer sleeve 30 separated from the first outer sleeve 25 and associated with the reservoir closure member. Between the first unopened first and second outer sleeves 25, 30 a cutting line extending in a circle of the type described below is provided. The cutting line 31 extends 360 ° around the closure assembly 5 and separates the first and second outer sleeves 25, 30. The cut line 31 will be inconspicuous or at least almost invisible by the naked eye. It also provides a means to open the first adjacent portions of the first and second outer sleeves 25, 30 upon resealing of the closure assembly 5 after the initial opening of the reservoir 15, which will be described in greater detail below. .

Applicant named the closure device of the present invention "ALUSNAP" refill prevention stopper assembly or tamper-verification device.

The first outer sleeve 25 has open first and second ends 40, 45, and the second outer sleeve has a first sealing end 50 and a second opening end 55.

The reservoir closure member 35 includes a circular groove 60 and further provides a circular lip portion 65 positioned adjacent the bottom of the circular groove 60.

The first contiguous portion comprises respective first contiguous circular edges 70, 75 of the first and second outer sleeves 25, 30. Prior to the initial opening, the first and second circular edges 70, 75 are located in the circular groove 60 and are substantially adjacent to each other.

During the first reservoir opening operation, the first circular edge 70 moves over the circular lip portion 65 in a direction away from the inlet 10 of the expansion or liquid reservoir 15 and then the circular lip portion 65 ) Is moved or contracted in a direction toward the inlet 10 of the reservoir 15 for liquid to a substantially initial circular position so as to be positioned radially behind. Alternatively or additionally, during the initial reservoir opening operation, the circular lip portion 65 moves underneath the first circular edge 70 in the direction toward the inlet 10 of the reservoir 15 for liquid and the It is then moved or expanded in a direction away from the inlet 10 of the reservoir 15 for liquid to a substantially initial circular position so that it is located radially in front of the first circular edge 70. These activities and activities are characterized by the circular lip portion 65 in which the first and second outer sleeves 25, 30 are located between them when the reservoir 15 is resealed by reusing the closure member 35. The circular lip portion 65 is positioned longitudinally between the first and second circular edges 70, 75 in an intervening manner.

By this arrangement after resealing, the first and second circular edges 70, 75 are no longer adjacent but are spaced apart and thus substantially between the first and second circular edges 70, 75. Thereby revealing a void or gap comprising groove 60 and lip portion 65. This visual indicator verifies whether the closure assembly 5 (and the reservoir 15) has been opened and resealed.

In a variant the first circular edge 70 of the first outer sleeve 25 can provide a first circular bead portion to the first outer sleeve 25 adjacent the first circular edge 70, and in the same manner The second circular edge 75 of the second outer sleeve 30 may also provide a second circular bead portion to the second outer sleeve 30 adjacent the second circular edge 75.

The first and second outer sleeves 25, 30 are made of any suitable material, for example metal or metal based material. In this embodiment the metal comprises substantially aluminum or its alloys, for example aluminum foil. Aluminum provides a quality medium for the application of printing dyes, inks, paints and the like, so that messages, logos, images, names, and other information can be conveyed by the first and second outer sleeves 25, 30. have.

The reservoir closure member 35 has an interior that allows for rotational movement (usually counterclockwise) of the cap 35 during the opening of the reservoir, and reverse rotational movement (usually clockwise) of the cap 35 during the closure of the reservoir. In the form of a cap comprising a threaded portion 85.

The closure assembly 5 includes a refill prevention device 90 that provides a runoff device 95 suitable for protecting the inlet 10 of the reservoir 15 for liquids. The reservoir closure member 35 is suitable for closing the outlet 100 of the runoff discharge device 95 and the first outer sleeve 25 is arbitrarily positioned to receive the minimum portion of the runoff discharge device 95. . The outlet 100 is substantially annular and the cap 35 has an annular seal 110 removably receivable in the annular outlet 100 at the inner end face 105. The annular outlet 100 defines a circular flowing lip 101.

The second outer sleeve member 30 is suitable for receiving the cap 35. The cap 35 is generally received in tightly tight fit in the second outer sleeve 30, but is rotatable relative to the second outer sleeve 30 under the application of sufficient force. For example, in the resealing of the closure assembly 5, when the circular lip portion 65 is adjacent to the first circular edge 70, additional resealing movements (eg, the second outer sleeve 30) may occur. Clockwise rotation) of the closure member 35 and the outer sleeve 25 to rotate relative thereto. In addition, the second circular edge 75 bears the second outer sleeve 30 longitudinally with respect to the closure member 35.

The runoff drainage device 95 is made part of the sleeve 20, for example by injection molding.

The refill prevention device 90 further comprises a valve seat body 115 which is at least partially receivable within a minimum portion of the neck portion 11 of the reservoir 15, the valve seat body 115 being attached to the sleeve 20. Are at least partially enclosed. The first and second movable valve members 135, 136 are provided in the valve seat body 115. The first valve member 135 comprises a spherical body while the second valve member 136 has a closed frustonical lower end pointed downward and an open top end received by the first valve member 135. Tubular body.

A non-return valve is formed of the valve seat body 115 and the valve members 135, 136 and closed in the vertical position of the bottle 15, and the liquid flows out of the bottle 15 in running water. During this time, the valve restricts liquid inflow into the bottle 15 by a more fraudulent method involving unauthorized basic injection operation or attempts to insert objects, tubes, etc. into the bottle inlet 10.

Means for holding the first outer sleeve 25 longitudinally with respect to the sleeve 20, for example one end 26 of the first outer sleeve 25 formed (tilt) over the end 120 of the sleeve 20. ) Is provided.

Before the initial opening of the closure assembly 5, the first and second circular edges 70, 75 of the first and second outer sleeves 25, 30 are in a circular groove 60 provided in the cap 35. Located, and substantially adjacent. This position is such that when the reservoir 15 is first opened by the relative twisting of the cap 35 and the sleeve 20, the second circular edge 75 of the second outer sleeve 30 is provided on the cap 35. Staying in the groove 60 and gradually resiliently causing the first circular edge 70 of the first outer sleeve 25 to move circularly out of the groove 60 provided in the cap 35. It is ensured that 35 is removed from the runoff drainage device 95 and the first outer sleeve 20 portion. As mentioned above, optionally or additionally, the circular lip portion 65 is progressively caused to move inward in a circular manner. As soon as the contact between the cap 35 and the first circular edge 70 of the first outer sleeve 25 is removed, the first circular edge 70 is substantially reduced in circumference (eg its initial circumference). And thus the resulting circumference is smaller than the circumference of the cap portion, for example the circular lip portion 65, located below the groove 60.

When the cap 35 is reused in the runoff drainage device 95, the circular lip portion 65 of the cap 35 rests, rests or abuts against the first circular edge 70 of the first outer sleeve 25. A stop position is reached, thus preventing the cap 35 from returning to the original (unopened) start position. A longitudinal gap or void (not shown) therefore remains between the first and second outer sleeves 25, 30, and thus the circular lip portion 65 enclosed or enclosed in the first outer sleeve 25 in the first place. Reveals a circular portion of the cap 35 that includes a minimum portion of. Additional voids (not shown) are also present between the lower edge of the cap 35 and the seating surface 120 of the initial cap 35 of the runoff discharge device 95.

The exposed circular portion of the cap 35 is advantageously colored and / or printed with information, incentives and the like.

The securing means comprises a first means 125 for securing the sleeve 20 to the reservoir 15 to prevent rotational movement of the sleeve 20 relative to the neck portion 11 of the reservoir 15.

The securing means also includes a second means 130 for securing the sleeve 20 to the reservoir 15 to limit the longitudinal movement of the sleeve 20 relative to the inlet 10 of the reservoir 15. The second means 130 for fixing the sleeve 20 is in the form of at least one protruding means 130 protruding in the inner direction of the sleeve 20, wherein the at least one protruding means 130 is rigidly elastic In the radial direction of the sleeve 30 and in engagement with the outer lip portion 12 of the reservoir 15.

The first outer sleeve 25 is secured to the sleeve 20 by an interference fit means between the outer surface 140 of the sleeve 20 and the inner surface 145 of the first outer sleeve 25.

The cap 35 has a threaded portion 85 that engages therein with a corresponding threaded portion 150 on the runoff device 95.

It is preferred that the first and second outer sleeves 25, 30 are aesthetically pleasing, and as such, the first and second outer sleeves 25, 30 preferably comprise a metal foil.

It provides a means 146 for cooperating and supported by each of the ribs and grooves that assemble the sleeve 20 and the valve seat body 115 together before being applied to the reservoir 15.

Protruding means 130 are provided on the inner wall 15 of the sleeve 20 for resilient engagement with the neck portion 11 and the outer lip portion 12 of the reservoir 15.                 

The sleeve 20 includes one or more circular gaps 155 around the sleeve 20 defined between the portions of the sleeve 20 extending in the axial direction. The respective protruding means 130 are provided adjacent one edge of the gap 155.

As can be seen in this embodiment, each protruding means 130 is located at one lower circular edge 160 of the gap 155.

The sleeve 20 further has a tubular body 165 located substantially co-centered and inward of the runoff drainage device 95. The tubular body 165 is attached to the inner portion 170 of the sleeve 20 or the runoff device 95 by a plurality of webs 175. The hole 180 of the tubular body 165 is closed by the outer facing wall 185. In a variant, the tubular body 165 may be a wall or solid located at any convenient axial position along the tubular body 165. The closed wall 185 of the tubular body 165 is located at substantially the same height as the circular flowing lip 101.

The tubular body 165 is provided with a circularly extending border 190 positioned at the outer edge 195 of the bottom of the tubular body 165. Conveniently the webs 175 connect the inner surface 200 of the sleeve 20 to the rim 190 and the tubular body 165. Each web 175 is configured to provide a bracket to which the rim 190 rests stably.

The sleeve 20 is provided with a plurality of protrusions (or ridges) 205 formed on the inner surface 200, in this embodiment arranged circularly along the sleeve 20 and substantially in the sleeve 20. It has a long axis arranged in the axial direction. In use, these protrusions 205 are embossed, ridges, etc. on the outer surface of the reservoir 15 (including the so-called "glass finish" of the bottle) to prevent unwanted movement of the sleeve 20. An anti-rotation first means 125 is formed which interacts with 13.

Any small rotational activity in the clockwise or counterclockwise direction will occur until the stop position found by the protrusion or protrusions 205 against the ridge or ridges 13. However, continued application of force causes the first outer sleeve 35 and / or the second outer sleeve 30 to rotate relative to the sleeve 20 and / or the cap 35, respectively.

The valve seat body 115 includes a tubular portion 210, and the free end portion 215 of the tubular portion is contacted by the first valve member 135 captured in the tubular portion 210 in a sealing manner. A suitable valve seat 220 is provided.

The valve seat 220 includes a flange 221 extending radially inward of the tubular portion 210 extending in a circle. In this embodiment the valve seat 220 is located at one end of the tubular portion 210, and the end of the tubular portion 210 is closed except the annular hole 225.

The tubular portion 210 is suitable for being substantially received into the inlet portion 10 of the reservoir 15. The tubular portion 210 further comprises at least one engagement means 230 on the outer surface 235 for connecting the inner surface 240 of the reservoir 15 in an interfering manner. Engagement means 230 comprise radially extending circular protrusions.

At or near one end of the tubular portion 210 away from the valve seat 220 is provided an additional tubular body 245 that is substantially cocentric with a diameter larger than the tubular portion 210, and an additional tubular body. The inner surface 250 of 245 is connected to the outer surface 255 of the tubular portion 210 by one or more additional webs 260.

In addition, the first end 256 of the additional tubular body 245 is connected to the outer surface 255 of the tubular portion 210 by an annular flange 275. This structure is trough a circular bowl 280 with a flange 275 forming a defined bowl layer between the outer surface 270 of the tubular portion 210 and the inner surface 250 of the additional tubular body 275. ). The vessel 280 is divided into small arc-shaped vessels 285 by an additional web 260.

This vessel 280 or vessels 285 helps to prevent the insertion of an object into the reservoir 15 through the closure assembly 5.

The second end 290 of the additional tubular body 245 is disposed at substantially the same height as the end 295 of the tubular portion 210 away from the valve seat 220.

In use, the tubular portion 210 forms the inner sleeve of the assembled closure assembly 5.

The outer surface 300 of the additional tubular body 245 interacts with and interferes with the inner surface 305 of the sleeve 20. Conveniently, a radially extending circular rim 310 is located at the outer edge 315 of the end of the additional tubular body 245, which is provided on the inner face of the sleeve 20 in the assembled closure assembly 5. Seated against the bottom surface of the radially extending circular rim 226.

The storage container 15 described in the embodiment is preferably a storage container for liquid. The reservoir 15 is probably a glass bottle suitable for storage of a bottle, for example an alcoholic beverage or beverage, for example vodka, whiskey, brandy, gin or the like.

Typically, the bottle 15 is made of glass or, optionally, a plastic material, the first and second outer sleeves 25, 30 are made of aluminum, the cap 35 is made of low density polyethylene, the sleeve 30 and the runoff outlet. 95 is a low-elastic plastic material such as polypropylene or polystyrene, polystyrene obtainable under the trade name “STYROLUX” in this embodiment, valve member 135 is made of crystal polystyrene and valve seat body 115 is made of low density polyethylene. do.

Referring now to FIGS. 1-3, there is a schematic method of manufacturing the closure assembly 5 according to the invention. The method includes the following steps:

(a) providing an outer sleeve member 24 (FIG. 1);

(b) providing a runoff drainage device 95 and a sleeve 20 suitable for protecting the inlet and / or neck portions 10, 11 of the liquid reservoir 15 and a runoff discharge device 95 and / or Or providing a reservoir closure member 35 for protecting the sleeve 20 from being opened (FIG. 1);

(c) arranging the minimum water discharge device 95, the sleeve 20, and the reservoir closure member 35 which are a minimum portion in the outer sleeve member 24 (FIG. 2);

(d) forming the outer sleeve member 24 as a second outer sleeve member 30 separate from the first outer sleeve 25 (FIG. 3).

This method is particularly advantageous in mass production. Step (d) is performed by using a first cutting tool (not shown) such as the blade of the machine tool.                 

Step (d) is: cut along the portion of the outer sleeve member 24 to form first and second circular edges 70, 75 separated from the first and second outer sleeves 25, 30 but adjacent to the first and second outer sleeves 25, 30. Forming a step. As mentioned above, the blade forms the cutting line 31 in this manner.

As can be seen in FIG. 3, the first and second circular edges are formed in a circular groove 60 which bears the reservoir closure member 35. As can also be seen, the first and second circular edges 70, 75 have a reduced diameter compared to each minimum adjacent portion of the first or second outer sleeves 25, 30.

After step (c) the method also comprises the following steps:

(e) forming an end 26 of the first outer sleeve 25 over the end 120 of the sleeve 20 to maintain the first outer sleeve 25 and the sleeve 20 in longitudinal association. Step (e) is performed by using a second cutting tool (not shown), such as an additional blade of the machine tool. It is advantageous in this embodiment that steps (d) and (e) are undertaken at substantially the same time, for example for reasons of manufacturing speed.

The closure assembly 5 formed by this method comprises a single assembly for snap application to the inlet and neck portions 10, 11 of the reservoir 15.

The bottling method according to the invention comprises the following steps:

(a) providing a closure assembly 5;

(b) providing a bottle 15;

(c) filling the bottle 15 with liquid;                 

(d) sealing the bottle 15 using the closure assembly 5 at the inlet and neck portions 10, 11 of the bottle 15.

It is to be understood that the embodiments of the invention described above are given merely as non-limiting embodiments, and that modifications may be made without departing from the scope of the invention.

For example, the outer sleeve member can be used in a variety of different designs of watering devices suitable for use in a variety of reservoirs, including bottles.

In a variant, the second outer sleeve and / or the first outer sleeve comprises a knurred or castellated surface which assists in opening and reopening and / or sealing and resealing of the closure assembly. can do.

It will be further appreciated that the present invention, in particular providing an ideal single snap part, has enhanced aesthetic appeal as well as functional advantages over the prior art.

Finally, in the closure assembly of the present invention, the first and second circular edges of the first and second outer sleeves will be adjacent to each other and actually closer to each other prior to initial opening. However, the edges are not connected to one another, but are distinguished and separated from one another, for example by a weak cut line, a weak link or a weak and / or removable tear ring.

According to the present invention, in addition to providing an apparatus for preventing refilling of bottles, it is possible to provide an apparatus with additional tamper-indicating means for instructing whether the bottle is opened after the original contents have been filled.

Claims (28)

A sleeve 20 used for the inlet 10 and the neck 11 portion of the liquid reservoir 15, the sleeve 20 being provided with means for securing the sleeve 20 to the reservoir 15, said sleeve A first outer sleeve 25 coaxially mounted above 20 and a second outer sleeve 30 separated from the first outer sleeve and substantially tightly coupled with the reservoir closure member 35, The first and second outer sleeves are axially aligned and have respective first adjacent portions, the first adjacent of the first and second outer sleeves 25, 30 upon resealing of the assembly after the initial opening of the reservoir. A closure assembly (5), characterized in that means are provided for opening the parts. 2. The first outer sleeve 25 has open first and second ends 40, 45 and the second outer sleeve 30 has a first seal end 50 and a first seal. A closure assembly, characterized in that it has two opening ends (55). 3. A closure assembly according to claim 2, wherein the first outer sleeve (25) comprises an end (26) inclined over the end (120) of the sleeve (20). 2. The closure assembly of claim 1, wherein the reservoir closure member (35) comprises a circular groove (60) that further provides a circular lip portion (65) located adjacent the lower portion of the circular groove (60). . 2. The closure assembly of claim 1, wherein the first adjacent portions comprise adjacent circular edges (70, 75) of each of the first and second outer sleeves (25, 30). 6. A first circular bead portion over the first outer sleeve 25 is provided at a first circular edge 75 of the first outer sleeve 25 and the second outer sleeve 30 is provided. A second circular bead portion on the second outer sleeve (30) at the second circular edge (70) of the stopper assembly. 7. A closure assembly according to claim 6, wherein the first and second circular edges (70, 75) are located in the circular groove (60) substantially adjacent to each other prior to initial opening. 8. The first round edge 75 extends above the circular lip portion 65 or moves away from the inlet 10 of the reservoir 15 during the initial opening operation of the reservoir. And then move or contract in a direction towards the inlet 10 of the reservoir 15 for the liquid to a substantially initial circular position so as to be circularly located behind the circular lip portion 65. . 8. A container according to claim 7, wherein during the initial opening operation of the reservoir, the circular lip portion 65 contracts under the first circular edge 75 or towards the inlet 10 of the reservoir 15 for liquid. Move or expand in a direction away from the inlet 10 of the reservoir 15 for liquid to a substantially initial circular position so that it is then positioned circularly in front of the first circular edge 75. Plug assembly. 9. The storage container according to claim 8, wherein after the initial opening operation of the storage container, the circular lip portion 65 is vertically positioned in an interfering manner between the first and second circular edges 70, 75. Plug assembly, characterized in that the first and second outer sleeves (25, 30) are opened by at least a circular lip portion (65) located between them when the seal member is resealed by reusing the closure member. 11. The closure assembly of claim 10 wherein the closure assembly is opened by opening and closing the first and second circular edges 70, 75 no longer adjacent after resealing to reveal a void or gap between the first and second circular edges. And a visual indicator to verify that the seal is resealed. 10. The container according to claim 9, wherein after the initial opening operation of the reservoir the circular lip portion 65 is positioned longitudinally in an interfering manner between the first and second circular edges 70, 75 and thus the reservoir. Plug assembly, characterized in that the first and second outer sleeves (25, 30) are opened by at least a circular lip portion (65) located between them when the seal member is resealed by reusing the closure member. 13. The closure assembly of claim 12 wherein the closure assembly is opened by opening and closing the first and second circular edges 70, 75 no longer adjacent after resealing to reveal a void or gap between the first and second circular edges. And a visual indicator to verify that the seal is resealed. 6. The container closure member (35) according to claim 5, wherein the reservoir closure member (35) comprises a circular groove (60) which further provides a circular lip portion (65) located adjacent the bottom of the circular groove (60) and, prior to initial opening, A closure assembly, characterized in that the first and second circular edges (70, 75) are located in the circular groove (60) substantially adjacent to each other. 15. The method of claim 14, wherein during the initial opening of the reservoir, the first circular edge 75 extends over the circular lip portion 65 or moves in a direction away from the inlet 10 of the reservoir 15 for liquids. And then move or contract in a direction towards the inlet 10 of the reservoir 15 for the liquid to a substantially initial circular position so as to be circularly located behind the circular lip portion 65. . 15. The method according to claim 14, wherein during the initial opening operation of the reservoir, the circular lip portion 65 contracts under the first circular edge 75 or toward the inlet 10 of the reservoir 15 for liquid. Move or expand in a direction away from the inlet 10 of the reservoir 15 for liquid to a substantially initial circular position so that it is then positioned circularly in front of the first circular edge 75. Plug assembly. 16. The container according to claim 15, wherein after the initial opening operation of the reservoir the circular lip portion 65 is positioned longitudinally in an interfering manner between the first and second circular edges 70, 75 and thus the reservoir. Plug assembly, characterized in that the first and second outer sleeves (25, 30) are opened by at least a circular lip portion (65) located between them when the seal member is resealed by reusing the closure member. 18. The closure assembly of claim 17 wherein the closure assembly is opened by opening and closing the first and second circular edges 70, 75 no longer adjacent after resealing to reveal a void or gap between the first and second circular edges. And a visual indicator to verify that the seal is resealed. 17. The container according to claim 16, wherein after the initial opening operation of the reservoir the circular lip portion 65 is positioned longitudinally in an interfering manner between the first and second circular edges 70, 75 and thus the reservoir. Plug assembly, characterized in that the first and second outer sleeves (25, 30) are opened by at least a circular lip portion (65) located between them when the seal member is resealed by reusing the closure member. 20. The closure assembly of claim 19 wherein the closure assembly is opened by opening and closing the first and second circular edges 70, 75 no longer adjacent after resealing to reveal a void or gap between the first and second circular edges. And a visual indicator to verify that the seal is resealed. 2. The closure assembly of claim 1, wherein the first and second outer sleeves comprise a metal or metal based material. 2. The closure assembly of claim 1, wherein the reservoir closure member (35) is a cap comprising a threaded portion (85) to allow rotational movement of the cap during the opening operation of the reservoir. 2. A closure assembly according to claim 1, wherein the closure assembly (5) comprises a refill prevention device (90) which provides a runoff device for protecting the inlet (10) of the reservoir for liquid. 24. The reservoir closure member 35 comprises a cap for closing the outlet of the runoff discharge device 95, the first outer sleeve 25 receiving a portion of the runoff discharge device 95, The outlet assembly is substantially annular and the cap has an annular seal removably receivable within the annular outlet with an inner end face. 25. A closure assembly according to claim 24, wherein the second outer sleeve member (30) receives a portion of the cap. 26. A cutting line 31 according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein a cutting line 31 is provided which extends in a circle between the first unopened first and second outer sleeves 25, 30. (31) a closure assembly which extends 360 ° around the closure assembly and separates the first and second outer sleeves (25, 30). 26. A closure assembly according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein each of the first adjacent portions comprises respective adjacent circular edges (70, 75). 26. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein each of the first adjacent portions comprises respective adjacent circular edges 70, 75, and the first and second outer sleeves 25, prior to initial opening. The first and second circular edges 70, 75 of 30 extend at a 360 ° circumference around the closure assembly and have a circular extension that separates the first and second outer sleeves 25, 30. A closure assembly, characterized in that it is separated from each other by (31) but adjacent.

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